The official website of His Holiness the Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang released the news of the closing ceremony of the International Mahayana Bhikshuni Varsa
The following contents and photos have been quoted from the official website of His Holiness the Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang (His Holiness Drikung Kyabgon – Facebook)
On September 15th, His Holiness awarded certificates to 131 Bhikshunis and Shramanerikas who completed the 1.5-month Varsa in Shravasti. In his speech, His Holiness emphasized the historical significance of this Varsa, marking the first gathering of nuns in Shravasti for over 2000 years during the summer rains retreat.
His Holiness expressed gratitude to all participants, organizers, and sponsors who overcame numerous challenges to make this event possible. He expressed appreciation that nuns from various lineages and cultures had harmoniously lived and learned together, increasing their confidence in teaching and spreading the Buddhadharma. His hope is that they will emerge as leaders in the monastic community for the benefit of others.
The closing ceremony featured speeches from Ven. Khenmo Drolma, Abbess Ven. Guo Goang, Ven. Khenchen Nima Gyaltsen, and Shri Ven. Kunchok Tsephel. Nun representatives from Vietnam, Dolma Ling Nunnery in Dharamsala, Druk Amitabha Monastery in Nepal, and Bhutan Nuns Association expressed their deep gratitude. H.E. Rinchen Dorjee Rinpoche from Taiwan and His Holiness delivered concluding speeches. The International Drikung Kagyu Council, the Drikung Kagyu Atisha Center in Indonesia, and the Drikung Kagyu Glorious Jewel Center in Taiwan, made offerings to the Varsa Assembly.
At His Holiness’ invitation, H.E. Rinchen Dorjee Rinpoche chartered a direct flight from Taiwan to bring 300 disciples to Shravasti to celebrate the completion of this historic Varsa. #kyabgonnews #drikungkagyu
Updated on September 20, 2023